James Burstall

CEO

Argonon

James Burstall is CEO of Argonon, an independent production company headquartered in London, New York, Vancouver and Glasgow that creates and distributes creative content across multiple platforms for the global marketplace. Founded by Burstall in 2011, Argonon encompasses various companies and businesses throughout the UK, the US and Canada. Under Burstall’s leadership, a spirit of independence propels the Argonon group, allowing highly talented, and experienced executives and producers to create innovative product that reflects their unique visions and expertise.

Under the Argonon umbrella is a raft of production companies including London-based producers Leopard Films, Transparent Television, Remedy Productions, Leopard Drama and joint venture Blacklisted Films as well as Glasgow-based Argonon Scotland and Remedy Scotland.  Windfall Films and joint venture BriteSpark Films operate across both UK and North American markets and Argonon has invested in Vancouver-based Remedy Canada.  The group includes distribution and format-sales arm Argonon International and Cash In the Attic Ltd, both based in London, as well as joint venture The Bridge, offering a gateway to the Asian TV market for English-speaking producers. Argonon has several strategic partnerships in place with outside sales and distribution, and production entities.

Together, the Argonon group produces and distributes content across documentary, factual entertainment, reality and lifestyle, arts, children’s TV and scripted dramas. 

Prior to forming Argonon, Burstall was CEO of Leopard Films. During his 10-year tenure, the company produced long-running series and formats including “House Hunters International,” “Man Caves,” and “Cash in the Attic,” which has aired in 167 countries, as well as award-winning documentary series and specials such as “Missing Live,” “Swan Lake in 3D,” “Leonardo Live,” “Africa Express,” and the scripted drama “An Englishman in New York,” starring John Hurt and Cynthia Nixon.

Before Leopard Films, Burstall worked for nearly a decade as an executive producer and producer-director for broadcasters all over the world. Notable projects include “Secret History of Hacking” (Channel 4/TLC); “Cutting Edge” (Channel 4); and ITV’s weekly investigative series “The Big Story.” He also was a producer for London’s Planet 24 (“The Big Breakfast” for Channel 4), and was a reporter and producer for the BBC.

Prior to his television career, Burstall was a journalist, working as a writer and editor in Paris, London and New York for such prestigious publications as Vanity Fair, Condé Nast Traveler, and the Daily Mail.

Burstall was educated at the University of Oxford, the University of Bristol and Stanford University Graduate School of Business.  James alsospeaks five languages.   

Speaking at: Meet a Mentor: James Burstall, Argonon